What to do if your flight is delayed or canceled during the US government shutdown

"The federal government shutdown has entered its second week, and already shortages of air traffic controllers have strained operations and disrupted flights at some U.S. airports. Reagan National Airport became the latest this week to report delays because of staffing issues Wednesday. But earlier in the week there were problems at airports in Chicago, Newark, Denver and Nashville, and the tower even had to shut down in Burbank, California."

"It is better to be stuck at home or in a hotel than to be stranded in an airport terminal, so use the airline's app or flight websites to make sure that your flight is still on before heading to the airport. This FAA site can be checked to see if there are widespread delays at your airport. Kyle Potter, executive editor of Thrifty Traveler, cautioned that it can be hard to get compensation when there are problems."

A federal government shutdown has reduced air traffic controller staffing and strained operations at multiple U.S. airports, causing delays and at least one tower shutdown. Airports affected include Reagan National, Chicago, Newark, Denver, Nashville and Burbank. Experts and union leaders warn the situation could deteriorate if the shutdown continues and employees begin to miss paychecks. Passengers are advised to check airline apps, flight websites and FAA delay maps before traveling. If flights are canceled, travelers should seek customer service, contact reservations or use social media for quicker responses. U.S. passenger compensation options are limited.

Read at www.bostonherald.com